A “LOL” from your best friend falls flat when compared to a real life belly laugh, a virtual hug from your grandma doesn’t hold the same warmth, and virtual reality—as fantastical as it can be—is no substitute for real reality. But what about a virtual tour of beautiful Paso Robles Wine Country?

When you can effortlessly twirl through 360-degree views, e-stroll past lush vineyards and even sample Paso’s famously flavorful wine (delivered to your door, of course), I mean—hey! We could get used to this. See why the New York Times recently named Paso Robles Wine Country as a must-see on its “52 Places to Virtually Go” list. Skeptical? Well, why don’t you be the judge?

1. Free the bear at Oso Libre

Wild at heart: Oso Libre, or “Free Bear” Ranch is an homage to the owners’ blended family names and the spirit of early California pioneers who came before. Known for artisan estate wines—including small lot Bordeaux and Rhone-style blends, cabernet sauvignon, claret and dessert wine—the welcoming tasting room is modern and sleek with a sunny covered patio. Virtually explore the pastoral grounds, which include the vineyard, grazing fields and rustic barn area. When we say “rustic” it’s the real deal here: Cattle roam here, meaning you can even order premium quality, estate grown Angus beef from the tasting room! This is what we refer to as “Paso’s where cowboy country meets wine country.”

2. Lounge if you like at Parrish Family Vineyard

Where everyone knows your name: Known as a plush hangout for creative food and wine pairings, Parrish Family Vineyard should be on your wine tasting radar (even if you can’t taste or dine there at the moment). Led by the Parrish family and its beloved patriarch, winemaker David Parrish, the winery is all about serving up stellar sustainably grown Bordeaux varietals grown on three estate vineyards (Adelaida District, Templeton and Creston). Got a WIFI connection? Tour the Pinterest-worthy tasting room, which feels a lot like a lounge, living room and cozy cafe all rolled into one. Note: when the tasting room does reopen, you’ll want to reserve a date for brunch and a real life vineyard tour. For now, you can dream.

3. Life’s just peachy at Peachy Canyon Winery

One for the history books: Zinfandel lovers know the name “Peachy Canyon,” and for good reason. This family owned and operated winery founded by Doug and Nancy Beckett way back in 1988 is a truly iconic locale for Paso’s heritage grape. Order a few bottles of Peachy Canyon Wine, known not just zinfandel but also fantastic Bordeaux-style blends, and you’ll taste the true terroir of classic Paso Robles in a glass. A virtual spin around the time honored tasting room—adorned with wood and white trim—reveals a warm and joyful oasis surrounded by sweeping estate vines. Bet you’d like to linger a while, right? When the lockdown lifts, snag a room at the Vineyard Cottage, complete with panoramic views, barbecue and a full kitchen. We’ll be glad to see Zoom hangouts go by the wayside, too.

4. Step into a storybook at Sculpterra

Where imagination swirls: There is just something so magical and surreal about Sculpterra Winery & Sculpture Garden (I guess you could say it’s right there in the name). Fine art and fine wine await visitors, both IRL and virtual. Sculpterra’s diverse varietals—including Rhone and Bordeaux-style wines, fresh whites and dessert offerings—will surprise and delight you, whether you taste a bottle paired with your home-cooked dinner or on a lounge chair in your own backyard. But wait, there’s more: Click around the virtual tour and keep an eye out for the massive fish, cat or elephant roaming the manicured lawn. Wow, right? With lots of stone, wood and natural light, the ample tasting room itself feels a little like a storybook manor from another time. Here’s your chance to step into a new realm.

5. Crown yourself at Tooth and Nail

Treat yourself: At Tooth and Nail Winery, everyone deserves the royal treatment. “The first castle on the right” is easier to storm now, more than ever, thanks to the internet. During your virtual tour, experience a different side of Paso Robles, where gothic chandeliers and regal red velvet curtains meet interesting wines and live music. Proudly pouring Rabble, Tooth & Nail, Stasis and Amor Fati, the winery is known for serving up everything from killer chardonnay and crisp pinot gris to bold tempranillo and Bordeaux-style blends. The castle itself is a painting for the senses: Feast your eyes on this unconventional estate, which begins with a watery mote, moves into the luxurious tasting room and soars all the way up to a lovely rooftop view of surrounding vineyards. Survey your kingdom (or queendom). All of this is yours…for the moment.

Covid-19 Wine Specials: Taste from home and reap the benefits. Here’s a slew of fantastic deals happening now so that you can enjoy your virtual tour properly—that is, with a glass of Paso Robles wine in hand.

The Adelaide Inn is an iconic, locally owned hotel known for its friendly staff and lush landscaping. With spacious rooms and a convenient location close to highway 101 and the event center – home of the California Mid-State Fair – this hotel is a great choice for most travelers. TOUR VIRTUALLY

Majestically set among vineyards, olive groves and fruit baring orchards, the 20-acre Allegretto Vineyard Resort is a world unto itself, offering breathtaking settings that inspire and bring joy to all who choose this memorable wine country haven. Featuring 171 rooms and suites, on-site spa, grand ballroom, wine tasting room, and inspired culinary creations at Cello, the resort’s full service restaurant.

Wouldn’t you love to wake up among the vines? Eden House at Carriage Vineyards Bed & Breakfast is on a real working vineyard and longhorn ranch in the Paso Robles Wine Region. Our rooms overlook vineyards, creeks and oaks, right in the Paso Robles Wine Country of Central California.

Spend an idyllic getaway at Briarwood Cottage at ONX Estate Vineyards in an English-cottage inspired vineyard-side home. Guests may rent rooms in the main cottage, reserve the entire main cottage for a large group, or book the fully equipped apartment. Wake up to peaceful vineyard views and spend twilight hours sipping wine on the back porch of the cottage. It’s a time you won’t quickly forget. Contact us for pricing and availability (see form below). Case, 6 Bottle, and 4 Bottle Collective Members receive preferred pricing.

Hampton Inn & Suites Paso Robles is nestled in the Central Coast wine region, home to over 200 wineries, beautiful beaches, mountains and diverse attractions. Relax and revive in a comfortable guest room with all you need for a successful stay. You can count on Hampton to deliver value, consistency and service with a smile. We love having you here®

Enjoy the elegance, style and natural beauty of California’s Central Coast at the JUST Inn®. Surrounded by vineyards, our JUST Inn Suites offer luxurious appointments like fireplaces, Tempur-Pedic®mattresses, Frette linens, hydro-spa tubs, and range in size from 600–1,200 square feet. An overnight stay includes breakfast and a tour of the winery and caves. TOUR VIRTUALLY

La Bellasera Hotel & Suites is an elegant boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Central Coast Wine Country. Influenced by Mediterranean and Italian architecture, the luxurious accommodations reflect the aged sophistication of the Central Coast region and the relaxed nature of the California countryside.

Experience the pristine countryside of Paso Robles Wine Country at Lekai Ranch. Lounge on the porch of your private suite and lose yourself in the tranquility and stunning views of the vineyards and oak studded hills beyond. This vacation rental is located just minutes from some of the most distinguished wineries and a premier olive oil estate, and only 15 minutes from downtown Paso Robles’ restaurants, wineries and shopping. TAKE AN AERIAL TOUR

Paso Robles Vacation Rentals, also known as PasoStay.com assists guests in creating memories and wonderful experiences by providing quality privately owned vacation home rentals in Paso Robles Wine Country. With over 90 vacation homes to choose from, small enough for a couple’s romantic getaway to large homes amongst local vineyards and olive orchards, PasoStay.com has the perfect option for you. Feel free to call 805-423-9174 to talk with a local expert or book online at PasoStay.com.